The re-users of today have already figured out that doors and windows make great material for a multitude of other projects. No need to cast those items into the landfill. According to Construction Waste Recycling, “8,000 lbs of waste are typically thrown into the landfill during the construction of a 2,000 square foot home,” so we could figure that a sizable quantity goes in when such homes are remodeled as well. “Most construction waste goes into landfills, increasing the burden on landfill loading and operation. Waste from sources such as solvents or chemically treated wood can result in soil and water pollution.” Yet, we don’t have to throw so much away: “In renovation, appliances, masonry materials, doors and windows are recyclable.” The gallery above (courtesy of Zillow Blog, where you can see several more) shows just a few ideas for old doors, which with a little ingenuity and basic construction skills, have endless uses.

Re-cycled/up-cycled windows

Windows, with their already constructed partitons, frame, and glass panels, also make great fodder for creative DIYers. Here are just five that took our fancy.

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Another headboard idea. Photo via Phantastic Phinds blog.

Another headboard idea. Photo via Phantastic Phinds blog.

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As coffee table, windows work great. Photo via Lamps Plus.

As coffee table, windows work great. Photo via Lamps Plus.

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Natural frames for photos and art. Photo via The Epic Times.com

Natural frames for photos and art. Photo via The Epic Times.com

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Greenhouses of any size can be constructed from old windows. Photo via Phastastic Phinds blog.

Greenhouses of any size can be constructed from old windows. Photo via Phastastic Phinds blog.

Anna Marie Erwert writes from both the renter and new buyer perspective, having (finally) achieved both statuses. She focuses on national real estate trends, specializing in the San Francisco Bay Area and Pacific Northwest, and writes for SFGate and CurbedSF. Follow Anna on Twitter: @AnnaMarieErwert

We’d love to see if readers have their own up-cycled/recycled/re-purposed creative ideas, so we’re proposing an informal contest. Send photos to to On the Block: we’ll sort through and post our favorites in a future blog.